A Smarter Way to Approach Vaccines in Neurodivergent Kids
What if the most important vaccine question is not yes or no—but which child, which timing, and under what conditions? In this episode of Demystifying PANS/PANDAS, Dr. Nancy O'Hara speaks with Dr. Ari Calhoun about immune activation, genetic susceptibility, microglial signaling, and why some children may be more vulnerable to neuroimmune responses when vaccines are given during sensitive developmental windows or periods of higher inflammatory load.
They explore how vaccine reactions may be shaped by immune pathway differences, maternal and early life antecedents, microbiome health, family history, and total immune burden. Dr. Calhoun also explains practical ways to reduce risk through informed consent, schedule adjustments, spacing, brand selection, and targeted nutritional and anti-inflammatory support—offering families a more individualized path that moves beyond fear and toward thoughtful, child-centered care.
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About the Guest:
Dr. Ari Calhoun, FMAPS is a naturopathic doctor and the founder of Wholesome Brain Medicine, where she specializes in the treatment and prevention of neurodevelopmental and pediatric neuropsychiatric conditions. Her work spans autism, ADHD, PANS/PANDAS, anxiety, OCD, tics, mood disorders, and other brain-based conditions, with a focus on how the immune system, metabolism, genetics, and the environment shape neurodevelopment and long-term mental health.
She is widely known for her thoughtful, science-based work in vaccine risk assessment and individualized immune support, helping families navigate complex vaccination decisions while protecting neurodevelopment and supporting resilience. Her clinical approach begins as early as preconception and extends through pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence.
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Social Handles:
Website: https://wholesomebrainmedicine.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.aricalhoun/
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/dr.aricalhoun
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Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP, FMAPS
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